The Limited Competition for Specific Pathogen Free (SPF) Macaque Colonies to Support HIV/AIDS Research (PAR-24-129) is a funding opportunity from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) intended to sustain breeding colonies of SPF macaques for ongoing HIV/AIDS research. This opportunity, issued under a cooperative agreement (U42), is designed to provide continued support for colonies that were previously funded under PAR-21-089 and PAR-18-669. These SPF macaques play a crucial role in HIV/AIDS research, as they are free from certain viruses that could interfere with experimental outcomes or pose risks to personnel involved in their care. The animals are also genetically characterized, focusing on their major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I types, which significantly influence immune responses to Simian Immunodeficiency Virus (SIV) in macaques, as well as to HIV in humans.

The grant supports the infrastructure and management of SPF macaque colonies, ensuring that adequate numbers of pedigreed animals are available for research that requires stringent pathogen-free conditions. The macaques are valuable in preclinical studies of HIV/AIDS, as they serve as a model for understanding the virus's pathogenesis and for testing potential vaccines and treatments. The focus on MHC class I genotyping is essential because specific genotypes are associated with varying degrees of susceptibility to SIV, thereby influencing the outcomes of research aimed at developing interventions for HIV/AIDS.

Eligibility for this opportunity is restricted to public and state-controlled institutions of higher education, with foreign entities and non-U.S. components of U.S. organizations not eligible to apply. This limited competition aims to ensure continuity in the availability of SPF macaques specifically bred and maintained for HIV/AIDS research, rather than opening the funding to a broader range of applicants. The cooperative agreement format indicates substantial NIH involvement in the project, including oversight of the colony management, health monitoring, and breeding practices.

The funding opportunity does not involve clinical trials, and it emphasizes maintaining the colonies under specific health and genetic standards to support reproducible and relevant HIV/AIDS research. While no specific award ceiling or floor is indicated, funding levels will be determined based on the scope and requirements outlined in the proposals. Given the nature of the research and the significant role of SPF macaques in advancing HIV/AIDS science, projects funded under this announcement will help sustain critical research resources that enable scientists to conduct ethically sound and scientifically rigorous studies.

Applications are due by January 7, 2027, providing a substantial window for eligible institutions to prepare and submit proposals. This extended period is intended to allow applicants to develop detailed plans for colony management that align with the objectives of the funding notice. Further information, including detailed eligibility requirements and submission instructions, can be accessed via the NIH grants website. For additional assistance, applicants can contact the NIH grants information service.